In Reply to: The drunken 18 year old bloke posted by Matthewsync on Sunday, 21. June 2009 at 18:26 Bali Time:
search, why do some people find it so hard. My point is when you committed your crime you were caught and convicted, apart from the initial penalty you were given goes the added penalty of "history". This history goes with you and if it causes problems somewhere in the future that to me is part of the initial penalty, that to me is just as much a deterrant to committing the crime initially as whatever the upfront penalty was. Please don't use the excuse you were young and drunk. If this was a valid defence then the judicial system would be in hibernation. You knew what you did was wrong when you sobered up I would assume. I am not passing judgement on your behaviour now and from what you say you are different to years ago but as far as I am concerned the "history" part of your sentence is still with you. If this seems unfair so be it, I am sure your earlier crime was just that also. I ask you this one question, if you honestly think you have "paid the full penalty" for your earlier crime well then why not tick the yes box on the immigration form and if questioned explain your situation. If as you feel your penalty is fully paid then the immigration officers should agree and let you through. The best advice you have received with your thread is to get a more qualified opinion than that of most idiots on this forum. DFAT and the police spring to mind. Personally I hope you do go to Bali without any problems, you will surely enjoy yourself.
As for being bitter with my previous posts, far from it, I speak my mind quite clearly whether I am on this forum or not. I choose to comment on stupid innane posts that either say nothing or are just plain garbage. Look no further than Pat Malone's previous post where he gave negative comments based on a visit to a certain area 4 YEARS AGO. This is an open forum and just as he has a right to give his opinion on a subject I have a right to comment on his or your opinions. If people do not like my response, tough luck. For the record I am not perfect and have done things I wish I could change but I have also been prepared to accept ALL the consequences of my past actions.